Discussions By Condition: I cannot get a diagnosis.

Lip Problems

For the last three or more months my lips have been breaking out randomly. I don't know whether to go to a dermatologist or an allergy specialist. I can't link it to any specific food I eat or thing I touch but my lips will get very swollen, incrediably red (almost scarlett), and very very itchy. It drives me crazy and happens one or twice every two weeks. There doesn't seem to be any pattern. Can someone please help? It is only my lips, not my tongue or throat. Thanks

2 Replies:

Very interesting. Can't think of anything but allergy or, because it flares up every two weeks, a viral thing that is cyclic but only attacks the lips. My only suggestion is to apply ice to your lips at the first onset. Ice kills cold sores, may be ice will do the same if your problem is viral. So ice you lips three times a day and see what happens. If it does calm then it is most likely a virus of some sort; the lips are so sensitve. But still take note of things you eat or touch with your mouth, just in case you are missing something. It just sounds so cyclic.Agape,searchingsam

It's possible it is cold sores, but hard to tell. Is this your only symptom? Do you get blisters that ooze or do they just swell? Also might be an allergic reaction to a food, medicine or beauty product. Are you using any new beauty products on or around your lips? Don't rule out use of a new toothpaste either. I knew someone who had a terrible rash around her lips due to a change in toothpaste.If it is cold sores, lysine is a good natural preventative.